Bhutan, a tiny Himalayan country, is overjoyed. The Bhutanese government prioritizes GNH, the Gross National Happiness of its people, over GDP as a measure of the country’s prosperity. It was an isolated country until it opened its doors for tourists in the 1970s, so it only started letting people in to share its happiness. Policies and life revolve around strong Buddhist beliefs, and it is home to spectacular landscapes, ancient monasteries, and dzongs (རྫོང).
With the Bhutanese government’s upkeep of the conservation of the forests, and the law stipulating that it should never drop below 60 percent, Bhutan's forests span over 70 percent of the country. The government’s stringent conservation efforts make Bhutan one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world, sheltering a vast array of birds and exotic animals, like snow leopards and Himalayan sheep.
Extensive research shows a positive correlation between exposure to nature and self-esteem and mood, reduced stress levels, and blood pressure. Heritage conservation policies are also put in place to preserve heritage buildings like monasteries throughout the country. All these conspire to forge happiness in the people of Bhutan and to maintain prosperity. Travel specialist Jess recounts her journey through the nation, as a chillip, or foreigner.